Local student artists are readying their arts and crafts for sale and exhibit at Art Gallery Jr. at BeachJam '99 on Jan. 18 on Magens Bay beach.
Ivanna Eudora Kean High School art students have seized this opportunity to display their more than 150 pieces of art to the general public.
Not just an opportunity to show off their talents, Art Gallery Jr. offers a valuable learning experience for its young participants.
"It is a hands-on experience about the aspects of the professional process of the
art industry," says Lisa Etre, Art Department chairperson at the high
school and project coordinator for Art Gallery Jr. "Students learn everything from how to matte, prepare and price their work for professional presentation in an art gallery."
The group will present a myriad of items, including mousepads, greeting cards and paintings in a variety of media. There will also be a silent auction on selected works.
Proceeds from Art Gallery Jr. will go
towards computerizing the school's art department.
"This exposure will be great for the school, the kids and the effort," says Etre.
She expects to enlist the participation of other schools for future events.
Art Gallery Jr. holds particular relevance to its non-profit umbrella, Cause Effective Arts Program (CEAP).
"Art Gallery Jr. and the students will make a bold cultural statement for the territory," says Steve Bornn,CEAP president and founder. "It's just a start in the process to foster the community's aesthetic appreciation and what better place to start — with our own talented youth. This clearly answers the call of CEAP."
CEAP is a non-profit organization that was founded by Bornn and Bill Grogan, who have a shared interest in the role of the arts in the V.I. It is dedicated to showcasing various international art forms for the territory's enjoyment, while building a continuing means for assisting
other non-profit causes.
BeachJam '99 will feature King of Latin Music, Tito Puente, zouk band Tabou Combo and Al Rapone & the Zydeco Express as well as local favorites Imaginations Brass, the UVI Jazz Ensemble and the All Stars Steelband. HBO funny girls Barbara Carlyle and DK will also throw their comedy into the
ring.
Admission is $15 for adults; children under 12 free; and $8 for students with I.D. Bring your own blankets.
Parking on the beach is very limited. Ten continuously looping shuttle buses will provide free transportation from the roadside parking areas.
Proceeds from BeachJam '99 will go to the Magens Bay Arboretum Fund.
BeachJam '99 is presented by Coors Light, Bluebeard's Castle & Beach Resorts and American Airlines.
